U.S. Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton today offered advice to Aung San Suu Kyi as the former activist shifted her interests to politics during an interview with Michele Kelemen of NPR.
“I think Aung San Suu Kyi certainly understands that it’s a rough-and-tumble experience, no matter where one is. But we did talk about the difficulties of not only standing for election, but being elected and having to make compromises. And that would be true in any political process.” -Ms. Clinton
She said democracy really has to be constantly oiled by compromise, and a lot of people think that somehow is less than principled.
“But if you look at it from a historic perspective, people come into elective offices with many different experiences and ideologies, and you have to work together.” -Ms. Clinton
She stressed Aung San Suu Kyi is fully aware of all the challenges ahead.
“She has been very helpful to us as we have designed our engagement, but continues to support the approach we’re taking, as she said publicly in her house today.” -Ms. Clinton
She stressed Aung San Suu Kyi is testing the sincerity and seriousness of the new leadership at present.
